NHL Announces Postponement of O'Ree's Number Retirement Ceremony

NEW YORK- The National Hockey League celebrates the historic decision by the Boston Bruins organization to retire Willie O'Ree's number 22 among those of some of the most storied players in hockey history. It is an honor that Willie unequivocally deserves for his trailblazing impact on and off the ice.

After consultation with Willie and the Bruins, we have respectfully asked that the banner-raising be postponed until January 18, 2022 - 64 years to the date that Willie became the first Black player in NHL history. We hope and expect the change will enable us all to commemorate this moment in a way that matches the magnitude of Willie's impact - in front of a TD Garden crowd packed with passionate Bruins fans, who can express their admiration and appreciation for Willie and create the meaningful moment he has earned throughout his incredible career.
Willie and the Bruins have graciously agreed to this change, and we all look forward to making this celebration even more robust together.